Ethics in Entertainment | Ethics

Ethics in Entertainment | Ethics

Posted By
Weaver Law, PLLC

For many, ethics in entertainment seems like an oxymoron. We have all heard
stories of the infamous “casting couch,” of stealing ideas
from unknowns, and other unscrupulous behavior. Remember the 1994 film,
“Quiz Show”, about a rigged game show from the 1950s? Despite
the perception, many in the entertainment industry are ethical.

Texas 'Continuing Legal Education' Panel

Over the past several months, I was fortunate enough to assist in the preparation
of the Continuing Legal Education panels presented at the Texas Bar Association’s
Annual meeting by the Texas Entertainment and Sports Law section. I consider
it a great success. Our attendance was higher than ever and each panel
was entertaining and educational. There were three panels – film,
music, and sports. Respected professionals in each field discussed real-world
examples of ethical issues in the industry while Professor David Grenardo
from the St. Mary’s School of Law served as the legal expert. Personally,
I worked with Richard Kraft, agent to many composers such as Oscar winner
Alan Menken; Barry Mendelson, former owner of the Utah Jazz and head of
the Dallas based Mendelson Entertainment Group; and Elaine Hendrix, an
actor best known for her role as the “wicked fiancé”
in the 1998 remake of “The Parent Trap.”

A number of stories and ethical dilemmas were shared. One situation that
I never considered came from Elaine Hendrix. She is a huge animal rights
activist. She refuses to act in any project that requires her to wear
fur or faux fur. It is an ethical issue for her. Other actors have lines
that they will not cross such as nudity or sex scenes. Of course, all
of these situations require legal counsel, negotiation and special contract
provisions. Sometimes there is no agreement and the actor simply loses the part.

Ethics is More Than Wrongs

Ethics encompass more than egregious wrongs. It is a daily part of all
of our lives and decisions. The same holds true for those in the entertainment
industry. Learning that people are willing to stand up and stay true to
their own moral compass in the entertainment industry is refreshing, especially
considering all of the negative media attention that the industry receives.
Don’t believe all of the hype. Ethics in entertainment is not dead,
and it is not an oxymoron.

And if you have the time, check out Elaine Hendrix’s new show with
Denis Leary premiering on FX on July 16th, “Sex & Drugs &
Rock & Roll.”